Current Affairs

BRICS summit brings Xi to New Delhi after seven years

2026-09-11 - ABikram Mondal

India readies for BRICS Leaders Summit in New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a video on social media on September 10 highlighting preparations for the 18th BRICS Summit. The two-day event opens on September 12 at Bharat Mandapam. Security measures include flight restrictions within a 300 kilometre radius of Delhi starting September 11.

Delhi government schools will remain closed on September 11 because of summit-related traffic diversions and security arrangements, according to the Directorate of Education order reported by Jagran Josh. Regular classes continue in most other states.

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in the capital ahead of the summit. The Ministry of External Affairs described bilateral ties with Russia as multifaceted and longstanding, per statements carried by Tribune India.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend the summit on September 12, marking his first visit to India in seven years. Beijing made the announcement on September 10 through its foreign ministry.

Leaders from other BRICS nations are also expected. The summit focuses on multilateral cooperation amid global tensions.

Special aviation protocols will remain in place until September 13 evening to ensure smooth operations for summit flights and designated aircraft.

PM Modi highlights space ambitions in Paris address

Prime Minister Modi addressed the International Space Summit in Paris virtually on September 10. He stated that India supports a safe, secure and sustainable space domain anchored in international law. Scientific data should serve the common good with openness and integrity, according to reports in Mathrubhumi English.

Modi noted that India plans to establish its own space station by 2035. He invited France and other countries to collaborate on India's next phase of space exploration.

Over 430 satellites from 34 countries have travelled aboard Indian rockets, Modi said during the address. He emphasised global cooperation and sustainability in space activities.

The Indian Space Research Organisation has played a central role in these achievements. Modi called for scientific data to benefit all nations without restrictions.

These remarks come days before India hosts the BRICS summit where space cooperation could feature in discussions.

India's push aligns with its broader vision for a rules-based order in space, as outlined in the Prime Minister's statements.

Xi Jinping visit marks diplomatic milestone

Chinese President Xi Jinping's arrival on September 12 will be his first trip to India since 2019. The foreign ministry in Beijing confirmed the visit on September 10. A large delegation including Foreign Minister Wang Yi will accompany him.

Bilateral talks between Modi and Xi are scheduled on the sidelines of the summit. Commerce ministers from both sides may also meet to discuss trade matters.

The visit follows a period of strained relations. Observers note it could ease diplomatic tensions even as business ties remain cautious, according to The Hindu reporting.

BRICS provides a platform for these leaders to engage directly. The summit agenda includes economic cooperation and global governance issues.

Putin and Xi will both be in New Delhi for the event. Their presence underscores the bloc's continued relevance for major powers.

India has hosted previous BRICS summits and will use this edition to advance its priorities in multilateral forums.

Bihar faces widespread flooding

Floods have affected more than 43 lakh people across 14 districts in Bihar. Several rivers including the Ganga are flowing above danger levels, officials told reporters on September 10.

State authorities continue rescue and relief operations in the affected areas. The situation remains challenging in multiple regions.

Heavy rainfall warnings have also been issued for parts of Odisha and other eastern states by the India Meteorological Department.

Schools in some flood-hit districts may face disruptions. State governments monitor the evolving weather conditions closely.

The scale of displacement highlights the recurring monsoon challenges in the region. Relief efforts involve multiple agencies.

Officials have not released updated casualty figures in the latest reports available on September 10.

Delhi schools close for summit security

All government, aided and private schools in Delhi will stay shut on September 11. The order cites security setup and traffic management for the BRICS event.

Parents and students received notices through official channels. Normal operations resume after the summit period.

Other states report no widespread closures tied to the summit. Weather-related advisories continue separately in rain-affected zones.

Traffic police have issued diversion plans for key routes in the capital. Commuters are advised to plan journeys accordingly.

The closure affects thousands of students for one day only. Educational institutions will adjust schedules as needed.

Similar measures have been taken during past high-profile international gatherings in Delhi.

Global context shapes BRICS discussions

The summit occurs against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts and shifting alliances. BRICS members hold differing views on several international issues.

India positions itself as a bridge in these talks. Hosting the event allows New Delhi to showcase its diplomatic reach.

Business forums alongside the leaders' meeting will address trade and investment opportunities. Private sector participation remains active.

Putin's schedule includes a bilateral meeting with Modi and an address to the BRICS Business Forum.

Outcomes on incubator networks and supply chain cooperation are expected from the deliberations.

The event concludes on September 13 with joint statements likely to follow.

The short version. India hosts the BRICS Leaders Summit starting September 12 with Xi Jinping's first visit in seven years and PM Modi's renewed push for space collaboration.

Sources

Reported from the sources above on 2026-09-11. Figures are as published at the time of writing. If something here has moved on, the linked source is the one to trust.

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